Stunning Luberon
Lourmarin, Bonnieux, Roussillon, Gordes, Fontaine de Vaucluse
Luberon is the real Provence, full of character, a sweet dolce vita of a climate and pure clean air which just breathes the incredible contrasts between a rich, and variable natural environment. Starting 30 minutes from Aix with Lourmarin, you will discover this charming village before reaching the village of Bonnieux. It’s the central Luberon with an overview on the northern Valley. Roussillon will be an original place to see with its famous Ochre Quarries. During the end of your day you will stop in the nice village of Gordes.Download the itinerary: Stunning Luberon
Lourmarin
Lourmarin nestles in the middle of vinyards, olive groves and almond trees. A very animated village in the summer due to its numerous cafe terraces, restaurants and boutiques. You will notice the typical Mediterranean architecture in its winding narrow streets, lovely old restored houses, and well shaded public squares.
Bonnieux
The church tower dominates the countryside and the surroundings of this magnificent village. Built on a plateau above the valley, Bonnieux is one of the finest villages in the area. The houses spread out on the hill-side form a striking harmony of earth-toned colours and shapes.
Roussillon
Situated in the heart of one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world, Roussillon is famous for its magnificent red cliffs and ochre quarries. You will be charmed by its atmosphere. Take the time to stroll around the picturesque maze of streets and squares. Numerous artists, naturally, have been seduced by Roussillon: Jean Cocteau, Carzou, Buffet, Ambrogiani... to only name a few.
Gordes
Its houses of white and grey stone rise up in a spiral around the rock where the village is set. At the very top is the church and the castle which face out onto the hills of the Luberon. You will discover here and there beautiful old doorways, arcades and walls of flat stone perfectly restored.
Fontaine de Vaucluse
The success of the village is essentially due to the impressive spring which flows out of the 230 m high cliff. Fontaine de Vaucluse inspired the poets Frédéric Mistral and François Pétrarque. They were seduced by the beauty of the place and enchanted by walks along the verdant banks of the River Sorgue.
Recommendations
Gastronomic restaurants
La Bastide de Capelongue in Bonnieux
This nice old traditional Mas has an elegant dining room. A creative and subtle food with 2 stars Michelin… Incredible view!
Best Quality for reasonable prices
Le Bistrot de Lourmarin in Lourmarin
It will be the place for a good French meal. In the middle of the village, you will enjoy the atmosphere and the dishes...
Suggestion for your day
Visiting The Vallis Clausa Paper Mill
In some steps of the Sorgue you will discover a wheel of 7 m of diameter pulled (entailed) by waters of Pagodon, this wheel and its gearings pass on. Every day the opener (Worker paper-maker), his flat shape in hand, lot of his tub about 200 sheets of papers - rags, white, coloured or in inclusions of petals of fresh(cool) flowers.
